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There is simply so much to love about Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu. It's a destination in itself, with its beautiful beach setting along the Kona-Kohala coast, gorgeous open-air spa, amazing pools with amenities galore and luxurious bungalows built into the black lava rock. Our five favorite things about this Five-Star property:

1. The Spa. The spa at this resort is literally 28,000 square feet of luxury and relaxation, combining both open-air environs with tranquil indoor settings to create a truly unique sanctuary. During a recent renovation, a tropical, open-air garden — the Water of Life Garden — opened for guests who want to relax under the shade of lush foliage and listen to the soothing sounds of waterfalls and chirping birds. The most unique offering is the apothecary, which incorporates the healing tradition of using natural ingredients to personalize each spa treatment.

2. Ka’upulehu Cultural Center. This interpretative center provides guests with an opportunity to learn about and appreciate all things Hawaiian, from cultural values to traditional arts. Some of the center’s offerings include star navigation, lauhala-weaving, shell crafts, feather art, ukulele lessons and Hawaiian language classes.

3. Hualalai Sports Club. This is no ordinary hotel gym. This exclusive sports club — Hualalai residents are members here, too — offers 15,000 square feet of health and fitness facilities, including a yoga studio, a tennis pavilion, a four-lane fitness pool, a rock-climbing wall, a sand volleyball court and a 1,300-square-foot state-of-the-art gym.

4. Outdoor showers. The resort is divided into two-story bungalows and villas, with every room boasting private lanais with ocean views. Most ground floor rooms, as well as all of the villas, have a special amenity: an outdoor, lava rock shower just outside the bathroom. (Second-floor rooms have bigger lanais and better views, since they are higher up.)

5. King’s Pond. The resort is divided into seven neighborhoods, each with its own unique pool. King’s Pond, located into the northernmost crescent of the resort, is a 1.8-million-gallon saltwater aquarium of sorts, carved out of the natural lava rock, with more than 3,000 tropical fish — and a spotted eagle ray — swimming freely. You can borrow snorkeling equipment or just lounge poolside and enjoy. You can also help staff feed the fish at designated times.

A day spent out in the sun snorkeling, paddle boarding or golfing warrants a good night's sleep, which is exactly what the beds at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea are made for. The Sterns & Foster Tivoli luxury pillow-top mattresses on the custom beds at this Five-Star hotel definitely encourage sound sleep. Each bed — king, queen or double — is dressed in silky, 300-thread-count Prestige linens, with thick down comforters and pillows that make it hard to get up in the morning. You might need to set the alarm on the iHome next to your bed to get a jump on another action-packed day in beautiful Maui. You'll be more than rested for it.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea has not one but three saline pools. The main pool is located in the center of the grounds, easily identified by its iconic fountain, and surrounded by cabanas and lounge chairs. Next to the main pool is the children's pool with waterfalls and family-sized seating areas. Both pools are heated — between 72 F and 82 F — and have attendants who frequently come by with every amenity you can think of — chilled towels, Evian spritzes, ice cream. Located above these pools — just before you enter the lobby — is the Serenity pool, which is reserved for adults only and has a swim-up bar (try the blueberry mojito). The 4,100-square-foot Serenity pool offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, Lana'i and the West Maui mountain range. The infinity-edge saline pool features underwater music and four bubble loungers, and is flanked by six luxury cabanas with flat-screen HD TVs and Wi-Fi (unlike those around the main pool, there's a fee for booking these cabanas).

It’s great to be a kid at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu. With a plethora of amenities just for children, your kids will never want to leave this Five-Star resort. The five best amenities for kids are:

1. Kids For All Seasons. This complimentary program keeps kids ages 5 to 12 entertained with outdoor, indoor and educational activities including treasure hunts, sand-sculpting, volcano-building and canoe lessons. The program is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with seasonal activities throughout the year. The facility also features a clubhouse with games, movies and other activities.

2. Arrival amenities. Young guests are greeted at arrival with special treats, which include milk and cookies on evening arrivals. Let the staff know the ages of your children when making your reservation and they will place child-size robes in the bathroom for them.

3. Junior Alakai Nalu. This three-day program introduces kids ages 10 to 17 to the ocean lifestyle. They learn the basics of First Aid, CPR, pool and ocean safety, rescue skills, two- and six-person outrigger canoe paddling, snorkeling, fishing and more.

4. Hale Kula. This game and activity center is just for teens, with a state-of-the-art entertainment center complete with a 54-inch flat-screen TV with surround sound — this is better than the TV in your guest room — six video game consoles and a grassy area for organized outdoor activities.

5. Keiki pool. The free-form pool for kids has a white sand bottom and a bunch of fun water toys. Kids will also appreciate the mini pool chaises for them. The maximum depth is 1.25 feet.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu has an array of amenities that make staying at this oasis a truly unique experience. The five best amenities:

1. The Pools. The resort is divided into seven neighborhoods, with seven unique pools. Beach Tree Pool is the centerpiece of the resort, with its mosaic ocean-blue tiles and wooden pool deck, teak chaises and cabanas. Pool attendants come by with an endless stream of amenities: Evian spritzes, ice cream, sunglass cleaning service, and more. The infinity-edged Sea Shell Pool is considered the family pool, with palapa cabanas and an adjacent free-form children's pool with a white sandy bottom and mini chaise lounges. Palm Grove Pool is for adults only with an oversize Jacuzzi, day beds, chaise lounges, a swim-up bar (which offers tasty alcoholic shaved ice) and two hammocks. King's Pond is the most unique of them all, with more than 3,000 tropical fish in the 1.8-million-gallon pool.

2. Hualalai Sports Club. This gleaming sports club offers 15,000 square feet of health and fitness facilities, including a yoga studio, a tennis pavilion, a four-lane fitness pool, a rock-climbing wall, a sand volleyball court and a 1,300-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness center. It’s easily one of the best resort gyms we've seen.

3. The Spa. The 28,000-square-foot, Four-Star spa at this resort combines both open-air spaces with tranquil indoor settings to create an island-style sanctuary. A tropical, open-air garden — the Water of Life Garden — lets you relax under the shade of lush foliage and listen to the soothing sounds of waterfalls and chirping birds. The most unique offering is the apothecary, where you can choose natural ingredients for a spa treatment.

4. Ka’upulehu Cultural Center. This interpretative center is a great place to learn about and appreciate all things Hawaiian, from cultural values to traditional arts. Some of the center’s offerings include star navigation, lauhala-weaving, shell crafts, feather art, ukulele lessons and Hawaiian language classes.

5. Kids For All Seasons Program. This complimentary program allows kids ages 5 to 12 to explore the resort’s rich tropical environment, with activities such as treasure hunts and volcano-building. Kids can even learn basic scuba skills in the resort’s swimming pool.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Ka’upulehu boasts seven gorgeous pools, each with its own design and atmosphere.

Located right on the ocean, Beach Tree Pool is the resort’s centerpiece. This traditional rectangular pool — known as the “quiet pool” because of its policy discouraging cell phone use — is lined with blue mosaic tiles and is surrounded by a wooden pool deck, teak chaises and cabanas. Its whirlpool, located at the front of the main pool, is the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

The lagoon-shaped, infinity-edged Sea Shell Pool is considered the family pool, with the freshwater children’s pool — complete with a white-sand bottom — nearby. This shallow pool offers child-size pool chaise lounges and a treasure chest of water toys.

The infinity-edged Palm Grove Pool is for adults only, with a 2,500-square-foot deck made from Brazilian ipe hardwood and basalt planking. The pool is surrounded by 24 chaise lounges, seven semi-private daybeds and two hammocks. There’s a swim-up bar, bench seating within the pool and a miniature Zen garden. All guests here are serviced with hourly poolside pampering.

The most unique of all the pools here is King’s Pond, a 1.8-million-gallon saltwater aquarium of sorts carved out of natural lava rock. It has more than 3,000 tropical fish from more than 75 species — including a spotted eagle ray — swimming freely.

There’s also a heated four-lane fitness pool in the Hualalai Sports Club and Spa and an ocean "pool" carved out of lava rock.

The rooms at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea are bright and cheerful with a subtle island décor and provide every comfort. The hotel is designed in a U shape so most rooms offer either complete or at least angled ocean views. Some rooms face Mount Haleakala or the lush tropical gardens surrounding the resort. All regular guest rooms measure 600 square feet so they are pretty spacious, and come furnished with contemporary artwork, roomy seating areas, adequate and well-lighted work areas, 42-inch flat-screen TVs, DVD players, iHome docking stations, thick terry bathrobes and lighter yukata-style robes, high-speed Internet access and plush beds with 300-thread-count linens and fluffy down comforters. Bathrooms are large, with separate tub and shower and plenty of room for two people to comfortably get ready. A small pantry is stocked with a mini-bar and coffee maker. Closets have plenty of space and have ironing boards.

To make the most of your Hawaiian getaway, there are few things you should know about Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Here's the 411 on this Five-Star hotel:

1.Wailea is an active resort community. This is not a remote hotel where folks hole up in their rooms and order room service. Four Seasons Maui at Wailea has a great energy. The lobby is a lively spot for an evening cocktail, the pools are upbeat and celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck's Spago is a fun place for dinner. The resort is elegant but not at all stuffy. Guests here are constantly on the move — golfing, snorkeling, taking Pilates classes, playing table tennis in the gaming area and exploring the island.

2. There are no bungalows. Unlike some of Four Seasons' other Hawaiian hotels, the resort at Wailea is a six-story structure with no bungalows. It's a multi-story, U-shaped building, a design that gives most rooms full ocean views. It's also spread out, so it doesn't feel like guests are on top of each other. But you won't be able to hole up in a secluded bungalow by the beach — Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu on the Big Island has that.

3. All Maui beaches are public. State law in Hawaii requires that all counties provide public access to beaches — including those in Wailea. So be prepared to share the towel space with residents and others, especially on weekends and during holidays, though the crescent beach here is never overcrowded.

4. There are no beachfront rooms. Even the most expensive, most luxurious accommodations — the 5,000-square-foot Maile Suite — don't have direct access to the beach. To get to the water, you'll need to walk across the hotel lobby, past the pools and down a right-of-way to the warm sand and crashing waves.

5. Wailea Beach doesn't allow motorized sports. Unfortunately, this means no Jet Skis or motorboats are allowed here. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the ocean. The resort offers a variety of non-motorized ocean activities, including stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling and outrigger canoeing.

After an extensive renovation and rebranding in 2009, the St. Regis Princeville Resort now offers some seriously fabulous dining with three unique restaurants from which to choose.

Kauai’s tropical setting is perfect for celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s French- and Asian-inspired menu at the Kauai Grill. On the eighth floor of the hotel, this sophisticated restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday and offers sweeping views of the gorgeous Hanalei Bay.

While Makana Terrace is open all day every day for casual Hawaiian dining, the real treat comes on Thursday evenings. The Mailani Dinner Show explores the culture and traditions of Kauai through chants, hula dancing and storytelling.

And from the comfort of a private dining cabana or under the shade of the gazebo, you can order a light Mediterranean lunch from the casual Nalu Kai Grill and Bar. Better yet, have it delivered to you poolside.

Though you can get a tropical cocktail at any of the restaurants, the St. Regis Princeville Resort has just one bar, the namesake St. Regis Bar. You can order light bites from a small plate menu and admire Kauai’s colorful North Shore sunset from the bar’s terrace or through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Nightly live entertainment is provided by local artists.

The St. Regis Bar has a couple of special, longstanding traditions. The Sunday Afternoon Jazz Jam has been attracting folks for years �on Sundays between 4 p.m.-7 p.m., you can revel in jazz tunes by both local musicians and off-island guests. The St. Regis, Baralso hosts a nightly ceremony to mark the sensational sunset, which includes champagne sabering and toasts between 6 p.m.-7 p.m.

When the location is as fabulous as Kauai’s North Shore and the accommodations as luxurious as it gets, it’s no wonder the St. Regis Princeville Resort has a strict cancellation policy. While the Four-Star resort requires a deposit when booking guestrooms, it is redeemable until 4 p.m. 30 days prior to your arrival. Keep in mind that if you cancel within the one-month grace period, you will have to pay equal to three night’s room and tax even if you were only planning on staying for one night. This stringent policy should be like motivation enough not to skip out on your vacation, but the Kauai’s amazing landscape aught to seal the deal.

As with most hotels in the Aloha State, the average price of a room at the St. Regis Princeville Resort jumps during the winter holiday season. (Throughout the majority of the year, you can expect the room rates to start at just under $400.) Case in point: A standard guestroom usually starts at $375 but springs to $430 over Christmas and goes all the way up to $705 around New Year’s.

But if you’re looking to spoil yourself, the St. Regis Princeville Resort is certainly the place to do it. Book the 2,400-square-foot Royal Suite for around $4,835 and receive the signature St. Regis butler service. (Ringing in the New Year in this suite will cost you $6,112 a night).

There are plenty of other options as well: Guestrooms can range between $550 and $735, while suites start at $765 and go up to $2,025. Again, these prices will increase during the holiday high season so plan accordingly.

Sprawling across 23 acres on Kauai’s North Shore, the opulent St. Regis Princeville Resort holds court on one of the world’s most beautiful islands. Located high on a bluff overlooking Hanalei Bay at 5520 KaHaku Road, the resort is the ideal spot to unplug completely. The Four-Star resort is considered the jewel in the crown of Princeville, a 9,000-acre private oceanfront community named in 1860 after Prince Albert of the Kamehameha royal family. In 2009 the super-luxe resort underwent a complete renovation and rebranding and it now feels both opulent and laidback. The hotel can arrange private limo and car service to take you to and from the Lihue Airport as well as around the island of Kauai.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua not only has a gorgeous setting and super luxe 17,500-square-foot spa, it also has five different restaurants. You’ll want to dig in to the breakfast buffet at the Terrace, which overlooks the resort’s three-tiered pool and the Pacific Ocean. If you’re looking for a snack or smoothie while basking in the Hawaiian sun, order from the Pool Bar & Café. (You can even be served poolside while relaxing on a one of the chaise lounges).

Ready for a drink? Head to the Beach House, which serves cocktails and lunch everyday from 11 a.m.to 3 p.m.

The Four-Star hotel’s signature seafood restaurant, Banyan Tree, is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday. Kai Sushi, the newest addition to the resort’s collection of restaurants, serves up more than 20 varieties of the freshest and most popular types of sushi and sashimi.

After a tough day of slurping down tropical drinks at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua’s pool, you may want to head to the Alaloa Lounge in the lobby for a more refined cocktailing experience. Here you’ll get fantastic views of the awe-inspiring Maui sunset, a good dose of live entertainment and some pretty decent people watching. The design of the lounge is inspired by the volcanic birth of the Hawaiian Islands, there’s a black lava stone wall behind the bar with a swath of red light (representing lava flow) which runs along in front of it. If you’re visiting between December and April, head out to the terrace for some whale watching.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is located on the western edge of Maui amid the lush landscape of a 23,000-acre, century-old working pineapple plantation. It’s location at 1 Ritz-Carlton Dr. in Kapalua and is more remote than other hotels on Maui. The Four-Star resort is at least a 45-minute drive from Kahului Airport, and the hotel has a car and limo service available for transportation to and from the airport as well as to other island destinations. And while the lively towns of Lahaina and Kaanapali are nearby, we like the faraway feel of this tropical destination because it’s just so easy to unplug and relax.

With it’s more remote Maui location The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua feels like the crème de la crème of secluded island resorts and you can expect to pay up for your escapism experience. Standard rooms start at $399 with 440 square feet and plenty of luxe amenities. If you’re itching to indulge, book the 2,500-square-foot Royal Pacific Suite, this penthouse guestroom has a full view of the Pacific Ocean and costs about $6,000 a night. The rates between these two options range from $519 to $1,609. Expect prices to jump a bit around the winter holiday season. For instance, Terrace rooms, normally priced at $519, can cost $599 to start, and two-bedroom suite prices leap from $899 to $1,929.

As expected from a luxury hotel holding court in the middle of paradise, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua has a strict cancellation policy. You must cancel at least seven days before your expected arrival date to avoid being charged a two-night room fee plus tax. Considering the rates, cancellation fees can be a pretty hefty, so we suggest getting your plans as close to perfect as possible before booking.

The Four-Star hotel also has a separate holiday season cancellation policy. During this time you will be required to give a full pre-payment when booking. If you happen to cancel within 60 days of your arrival, you will forfeit the full amount.

Compared with other luxury resorts on Oahu and across the Hawaiian archipelago, the Four-Star Kahala Hotel and Resort’s cancelation policy is downright lenient. To avoid a one night’s room and tax charge, inform the hotel you won’t be able to keep your reservation at least three days in advance of your scheduled arrival. However, if you’ve booked a suite you must cancel at least 21 days in advance to avoid a two-night cancellation fee. For reservations during the holiday high season, you will need to give a two-night, non-refundable deposit (a practice that is pretty standard procedure at luxury resorts on Oahu and beyond).

With all of the activities, luxury amenities and the five great restaurants at the Kahala Hotel and Resort, there’s really no reason to leave.

At Hoku’s you’ll experience a creative fusion of Asian, European and Hawaiian fare. The eatery is open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday and also serves a popularSunday brunch.

For a relaxing dining experience, head to the Plumeria Beach House for breakfast, lunch or dinner. With its open-air atmosphere, you can soak up the ocean-front location while enjoying fresh eats like grilled ahi tuna sandwich.

The casual Seaside Grill is a nice spot for lunch on the beach and is pretty much perfect for grabbing a bite after a morning spent at the pool.

And if you’re looking for a truly unique dinner, Tokyo-Tokyo is just the ticket. The Japanese restaurant uses Wagyu beef that can be prepared three different ways, but we suggest shabushabu cooked tableside in a paper hotpot.

After a long, hot day of poolside lounging nothing sounds better than a cool cocktail, and the venues at the Kahala Hotel and Resort has got you covered. The Seaside Grill serves up refreshing cocktails alfresco, while the old plantation-styled Veranda has sophisticated libations and live entertainment. Though you can get cocktails at all of the restaurants, the Veranda is the only true bar at the resort. We think some of its best qualities include the option for indoor or outdoor seating, an intimate dance floor, large chairs made for lingering, and a view that overlooks the Four-Star resort’s dolphin lagoon.

With 338 rooms sprawled throughout the Kahala Hotel and Resort, you can expect both a variety of guestrooms and a wide range of rates. If you are looking for a standard room, you’ll shell out around $425 during the off-season. And those standard rooms are anything but � they have 520 square feet and are larger than most mid-level rooms in hotels of the same caliber. During the high season these guestrooms jump to a starting rate of $475. The Four-Star resort’s suites start at $1,1750 and are a real treat with awesome extras like packing services, daily breakfast, round-trip airport transportation and reserved beach cabanas.

The Kahala Hotel and Resort is located in a quiet location on a gorgous stretch of sand just 10 minutes from Honolulu on the island of Oahu. The remote-feeling locale at 5000 Kahala Ave. often serves as a home away from home to an array of celebrities, dignitaries and even a few international royals. Originally opened by Conrad Hilton in the 1960s, the resort still maintains the tropical-chic meets mid-century modern look it did on opening day. The concierge can assist you with planning nearby excursions and activities, including helicopter tours, ATV tours, mountain biking, snorkeling, parasailing, dinner cruises and horseback riding.

Halekulani has three very different, very good restaurants. For a Four-Star, fine dining experience with an ocean view, hit up La Mer for dinner. The menu features must-have Neoclassic French dishes like sautéed foie gras with green and white asparagus, Chilean sea bass with Kurobuta pork belly, and roasted pineapple with fresh coconut milk sorbet.

Orchids, Halekulani’s casually elegant oceanfront restaurant, offers breakfast and lunch Monday through Saturday as well as a popular Sunday brunch buffet.

And for a really unique dining adventure, visit the House Without a Key for sunset cocktails and eats accompanied by live Hawaiian music. Head to this indoor/outdoor restaurant for a relaxed and laid-back breakfast, lunch or dinner.

You’ll find just one bar within Halekulani: Lewers Lounge, open nightly from 7:30 p.m.-1 a.m. This elegant spot has some of the most unique (and tastiest) cocktails we’ve had yet. Cocktail master Dale DeGroff, formerly of the Rainbow Room in New York City, lives up to his nickname, King of Cocktails. His menu is full of imaginative signature drinks created specifically for Halekulani. Musicians Scott Smith and Rocky Holmes fill the mahogany-laden lounge with jazz tunes Monday through Wednesday starting at 8:30 p.m. Bruce Hamada and Jim Howard entertain Thursday through Satruday evenings, and Noly Pa’a performs on Sunday nights.

Sometimes a strict cancellation policy is the price you have to pay to book a luxury hotel on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, a fact the gorgeous Halekulani on Oahu uses to its full advantage. If you cancel a standard guestroom within 72 hours before your expected arrival date, you won’t be charged a fee at this Four-Star hotel. But if you cancel less than three days before you’re scheduled to check-in, you can expect to pay one night’s room rate plus tax.

The policy is a bit more strict for Halekulani’s heavenly suites: Within 30 days of your arrival, you’ll be charged one night’s room plus tax for canceling. Cancel less than seven days before check-in and you’ll have to forfeit the full amount of your stay. For premier suites, a non-refundable full pre-payment is required 30 days in advance. And if you book before then, you’ll have to make a non-refundable deposit equal to one night’s stay.

Halekulani, or “house befitting heaven,” sits on the western side of Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu. Dating back to 1917, this historic five-acre property is a calm oasis in the otherwise bustling Waikiki. Located at 2199 Kalia Rd. right on the famous crescent-shaped sugar sand beach, the Four-Star hotel manages to keep its remote feel despite its centralized location. Many of the 453 rooms take full advantage of the fabulous Hawaiian locale with large lanais (patios) and Pacific Ocean views. Oahu itself is an amazingly diverse island, and you’ll find loads to do and see near this luxury hotel.

At the Halekulani, you can expect to pay anywhere from $435 up to $7,000 a night., depending on the type of guestroom your choose. If you plan to travel the week between Christmas and New Year’s, expect a sizeable rate increase during the notoriously heavy travel season. Whether you book the standard Garden Courtyard View for $435 a night or the premier Orchid Suite for $7,000, you’ll get the luxury amenities and the fine Hawaiian hospitality you’d expect from a Four-Star hotel (think twice daily housekeeping, docking stations, luxe bathrooms and welcome fruits and chocolates). And unlike many beachfront hotels, the majority of rooms have ocean views and all have large lanais.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is near some of the best golf courses in the world. The Five-Star luxury resort is within six miles of three world-class par-72 courses cushioned within the natural beauty of South Maui. The Wailea Blue Course, designed by Arthur Jack Snyder, sits on the lowest slopes of Haleakala, with fairways that meander through much of Wailea's natural ocean and volcanic wonders. The rugged Wailea Gold Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones II, offers a more challenging 18 holes covering more than 7,000 yards. With a reputation of being the "thinking player's course,"€ the gold course has hosted the Wendy's Champions Skins Game and the LPGA Skins Game. The Wailea Emerald Course, also designed by Jones, boasts breathtaking ocean views from every hole, and is also considered one of the best courses anywhere.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea does indeed loan out eReaders — with a growing list of titles you can read. If your idea of a vacation is to lounge around the pool with a great book, you've picked the right place. The pools at the Five-Star Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea are wonderful, with excellent amenities (someone is always coming around with everything from Evian spritzes to cucumber slices for your eyes) and plenty of space to spread out and lounge all afternoon. Grab a complimentary Kindle from the concierge or simply ask for one poolside. Originally, these eReaders were loaded with an assortment of books, but as guests purchase new titles — which remain on the device — the library grows. These are quite popular, especially around the adults-only Serenity pool.

Good news for canine owners: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is pet-friendly, allowing dogs up to 15 pounds to stay at the luxurious resort in Five-Star style — and at no extra charge. Pets are not allowed to remain in the guestrooms and suites alone, but they are able to roam freely around the rest of the resort and beach. It's important to note that when planning a trip to the resort with your pet, the state of Hawaii requires that all animals complete a quarantine of varying time before they can be released to their owners, so check with the Hawaii Department of Agriculture for more information before your trip.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea boasts an extensive list of amenities for families with children, making it a great family vacation spot. The resort offers a complimentary kids club (which is pretty hard to find in Hawaii) with activities such as lei making, beach volleyball, hula lessons, lawn hockey, ulu maika (Hawaiian bowling) and lots more. The resort also has a great family game room with board games, billiards, a ping-pong table and three gaming systems. A separate heated kids'€™ pool includes a waterslide and the beach has calm waters for safe swimming. The Five-Star resort also offers all the things you'll need — at no extra charge — including cribs, rollaway beds, childproofing items, toys and games for all ages, kid-appropriate DVDs and video games, children's books, toiletries for babies, and baby bottles. Kids receive their own age-appropriate welcome amenity, as well as child-sized robes. All of the restaurants on the property have kids' menus, as does the room service menu. Finally, when you need some alone time, the resort will arrange for nanny services.

You don't have to leave Hawaiian paradise behind while you hit the gym during a stay at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. The 5,721-square-foot gym at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea takes advantage of its location in always-sunny South Maui. The cardio room — with several TV-equipped elliptical and step machines, treadmills and recumbent and upright bikes — is completely outdoors, canopied and amid the tropical plants that landscape the property. The less exotic but efficient indoor weight room features Matrix Fitness strength machines, free weights and other workout accessories. Both areas are accessible 24 hours a day and are stocked with chilled water and Gatorade, dry towels, fresh fruit and disposable earphones. If you want to get in a game of tennis, the resort has two sand-filled synthetic grass Omni tennis courts, both of which are lit for night play.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is conveniently located near just about everything. You can easily get to any Maui attraction from here. We recommend driving the road to Hana with a stop in charming Paia to pick up provisions (Anthony's Coffee Co. has great pancakes, baked goods and sandwiches); dinner at the wonderful Hali'imaile General Store located in the town of Makawao in Upcountry Maui; and an afternoon in Lahaina, the always-packed whaling town where you catch a charter for snorkeling around Molokini. You also need to wake up really early one morning to see the sunrise at Haleakala, Maui's dormant volcano. Dinner at Merriman's at Kapalua will give you a glimpse of the other major resort part of the island while tasting the food of one of Hawaii's leading chefs, and you've pretty much covered the highlights in Maui. Right outside your door at the Four Seasons Maui, you will also discover picturesque beaches, jogging trails, restaurants, golf courses and shopping. Here are our top five things to do right near the Five-Star luxury resort in Wailea:

1. Golf. Three world-class, competition-level golf courses are located just six minutes from the resort. These three par-72 courses boast spectacular scenery, whether it's the majesty of Haleakala or the breathtaking beauty of Wailea Beach. The pro shop rents out clubs and can arrange golf instruction, too.

2. The Shops at Wailea. Less than a mile away — at 3750 Wailea Alanui Drive — is The Shops at Wailea, home to a diverse group of high-end and mid-range retailers ranging from Gucci to Honolua Surf. You'll find art galleries, specialty Hawaiian shops and boutiques spread over 150,000-square-feet of outdoor retail space. Dining options include Longhi's, Tommy Bahama Restaurant and Bar, and Kai Wailea for sushi. (Across from the mall you will also find Matteo's Pizzeria. You might not think pizza when in Hawaii but the spot serves delicious brick oven pizzas that are very popular with locals.) The mall is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

3. Maalaea Bay. Between the months of December and May, endangered humpback whales migrate to the warm waters off Maui to breed and give birth to calves. A few miles from Wailea is Maalaea Bay, one of the best spots on the island to watch these graceful creatures breach or slap the calm and shallow ocean waters. Book a whale-watching tour through the hotel's concierge and see these magnificent mammals up close.

4. Maui Ocean Center. Just 25 minutes away from the resort is the state-of-the-art Maui Ocean Center, the largest tropical aquarium in North America and one of Maui's biggest attractions for eco-tourism activities. More than 400,000 people visit this $20 million marine park annually, lured by its outdoor touch pools, a 750,000-gallon open ocean exhibit with more than 2,000 fish and the endangered Hawaiian sea turtles. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with extended hours in the summer.

5. Wailea's beaches. You don't have to get in your rental car to find a secluded beach on Maui. The beaches along the shoreline in Wailea are some of the island's best. Polo Beach offers great snorkeling and swimming and Ulua Beach Park is ideal for jogging and watching sunsets.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea easily lures you away from work, but when you just have to get a few things done, the efficient business center will take care of all your needs so you can get back to the beach. The business center, located near the front desk in the lobby, is small but it's open 24 hours a day and services most work-related needs, including printing, faxing, interpretation services and complimentary wired or wireless high-speed Internet connection. It also offers full notary services, and guests can have most legal documents witnessed, signed and shipped, faxed or e-mailed directly from the business center. The resort also offers door-to-door luggage-delivery service, allowing you to ship your bags, golf clubs or surfboards if you don't want to lug anything yourself.

You'll find plenty to eat and drink while staying at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. The resort's three restaurants and great bars offer something to suit your taste any time of the day. Here are our five favorite things to eat and drink:

1. Dry-aged bone-in prime ribeye (DUO Steak & Seafood). Formerly the Pacific Grill, DUO is the newest restaurant on the property (since 2007). The prime cut steaks are all good but its signature dry-aged bone-in prime ribeye with Kula corn and the restaurant's special barbecue sauce is awesome.

2. Grilled pizza (Lobby Bar). The grilled pizza from the Lobby Bar is easily one of our favorites. It comes topped with pancetta, figs, red onion, Maytag blue cheese and chrysanthemum leaves. The interesting flavors make for a pizza that you will crave as a snack in the bar.

3. Blueberry mojito (Serenity pool). The must-have cocktail at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is the signature blueberry mojito at the adults-only Serenity pool. Swim up to the bar and order this tangy but refreshing concoction that's a specialty here.

4. Ricotta gnocchi (Ferraro's Bar e Ristorante). All of the pastas are made in-house and they are all good. But we recommend ordering the pillowy ricotta gnocchi with a red wine-braised short rib ragout and fresh mint. Delicious.

5. Spice ahi tuna poke in sesame-miso cones (Wolfgang Puck's Spago). The signature dish at the celebrity chef's always-buzzing Spago is the spicy ahi poke cones. It's the most popular dish for a reason. The crunchy cones are filled with chunks of raw ahi and a spicy aioli, tobiko (fish eggs) and bonito (skipjack tuna) shavings. We could order this dish every night.

The bathrooms at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea are huge. From the Mountain-View guest room to the Deluxe Oceanfront suites, the oversized marble bathrooms have more than enough space for two people to comfortably get ready in (our standard for an adequately sized bathroom), thanks to spacious counters and a double-sink vanity. Each bathroom features both a glass-enclosed shower and a deep-soaking tub, and many have small windows that stream in natural light. All of the bath products — shampoo, conditioner, body cream, soap, lotion and a handy after-sun balm — are from L'Occitane. Every bathroom is also stocked with an overabundance of oversized bath towels, a sewing kit and a nice grooming kit complete with a file, nail clippers and a pair of small scissors. A music system — with options such as classic rock, soft jazz and contemporary Hawaiian — puts a spring in your step in the morning and helps you unwind at night while soaking in the tub.

It's all about the experience at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, and that philosophy is reflected in the special amenities provided in the rooms. While trendier boutique hotels may offer the latest gadgets — often with an extra fee — Four Seasons sticks to its all-inclusive policy, offering just enough conveniences without overwhelming you. Everything is subtle, efficient and non-invasive. You may not notice the daily activity list on your nightstand — placed there every night during turndown service — or the fax machine hidden in the bottom cabinet of the living room's entertainment center. The goal is to provide everything you need, but not force you to notice.

A welcome gift is left in the room when you arrive, often a spread of artisanal cheeses with a special jam or yummy dark-chocolate-covered Kula strawberries. The private mini-bars can be stocked to meet your needs, from your favorite candy bars to locally brewed beers to honey-roasted macadamia nuts. The huge bathrooms have in-room music systems, and you get to pick the genre of tunes. On the nightstands, you'll find iHome alarm clocks, where you can dock your iPod, iPhone or mp3 player and listen to your own personalized soundtrack. The hotel also loans out Kindles, gaming consoles, DVDs and CDs on request. All of these amenities make for a great stay, but our favorite perks at the Maui hotel happen to be outside of the rooms and by the pool — think Evian spritzes, chilled towels and ice cream. The staff will even clean your sunglasses for you.

The open-air lobby bar at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea practically begs for drinks before dinner, and we highly recommend having the signature cocktail while there. The Hana Haze, created by bartender Eric Martinez, will take the edge off after a long flight or top off your perfect Maui day with its blend of Bombay Sapphire gin, coconut water, lavender syrup, lime juice and a splash of St. Germain Elderflower liqueur. The cocktail is garnished with mint and a candied hibiscus — it's a perfect tropical treat that goes along very nicely with the relaxed atmosphere. Live music and a gentle breeze will definitely encourage you to stay for two.

Whether it's the next day or later the same afternoon, be sure to hit the adult-only Serenity pool, where the bartenders at the swim-up bar will make you the hotel's signature blueberry mojito, a tangy but refreshing cocktail that no other bar on Maui has yet to duplicate.

There are a few things you'll want to pack to make the most of your stay at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Don't forget to toss these items in your suitcase:

1. Workout gear. You will actually want to work out in the gym while staying at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. It's a lovely open-air space with a canopy and all the latest equipment. You'll also find pretty jogging paths around the grounds and neighborhood, so pack your gym shoes and workout clothes. (A good pair of sneakers or hiking boots will also come in handy if you plan to see the sunrise from the top of Haleakala, which we recommend you do. On that note, also bring some layers to wear for this activity, as you'll have to get up very early in the morning to join the other sleepy-eyed folks who gather to see the spectacular sunrise over Maui's dormant volcano.)

2. Two or three swimsuits. You wouldn't come to Hawaii without a swimsuit, but you may want to consider bringing extra swimwear. The pool area at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is one of our favorites anywhere. It's both relaxing and upbeat, and you will spend more time here than you might have anticipated. Pool attendants lavish you with amenities — Evian spritzes, snacks, cucumber slices for your eyes, ice cream, you name it. They will even clean your sunglasses for you and lend you a Kindle to read (the list of titles keeps growing from previous guests). Then, of course, there's the beach, where you can go snorkeling, try paddle boarding or just soak up the sun. For walks on the beach, there's a path that goes through Wailea, so you can easily visit the other resorts, so be sure to bring shoes.

3. Camera. There are no bad views from any room, restaurant or bar on the grounds. From your furnished lanai, you'll be able to see Wailea Beach, Lana'i and the West Maui mountain range. If your room isn't facing the ocean, you'll discover stellar views of the majestic Haleakala. Two of the most popular activities on the island — seeing the sunrise from Haleakala and driving the road to Hana — also call for lots of pictures.

4. Binoculars. If you happen to be staying at this South Maui resort between the months of December and May, you will likely see migrating humpback whales, which come to the warm waters of the island to breed and give birth to new calves. This is a sight you won't want to miss.

5. Golf clubs. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is affiliated with three neighboring world-class golf courses that are both challenging and picturesque. The par-72 Wailea Blue Course, designed by Arthur Jack Snyder, sits on the lowest slopes of Haleakala, with its fairways meandering through much of Wailea's natural ocean and volcanic wonders. The more rugged par-72 Wailea Gold Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones II, has hosted the Wendy's Champions Skins Game and the LPGA Skins Game. The course measures more than 7,000 yards through Wailea's stunning scenery. The scenic par-72 Wailea Emerald Course, also designed by Jones, is another standout course.

A day spent out in the sun snorkeling, paddle boarding or golfing warrants a good night's sleep, which is exactly what the beds at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea are made for. The Sterns & Foster Tivoli luxury pillow-top mattresses on the custom beds at this Five-Star hotel definitely encourage sound sleep. Each bed — king, queen or double — is dressed in silky, 300-thread-count Prestige linens, with thick down comforters and pillows that make it hard to get up in the morning. You might need to set the alarm on the iHome next to your bed to get a jump on another action-packed day in beautiful Maui. You'll be more than rested for it.

The rooms at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea are bright and cheerful with a subtle island décor and provide every comfort. The hotel is designed in a U shape so most rooms offer either complete or at least angled ocean views. Some rooms face Mount Haleakala or the lush tropical gardens surrounding the resort. All regular guest rooms measure 600 square feet so they are pretty spacious, and come furnished with contemporary artwork, roomy seating areas, adequate and well-lighted work areas, 42-inch flat-screen TVs, DVD players, iHome docking stations, thick terry bathrobes and lighter yukata-style robes, high-speed Internet access and plush beds with 300-thread-count linens and fluffy down comforters. Bathrooms are large, with separate tub and shower and plenty of room for two people to comfortably get ready. A small pantry is stocked with a mini-bar and coffee maker. Closets have plenty of space and have ironing boards.

It may not boast the latest technology in its luxurious guestrooms and suites, but Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea has its own brand of offerings that are unique. For example, you can display your digital photos through the DVD loaded onto the room's flat-screen TV to relive every moment of your vacation. Or you can soak in the tub while listening to the sound system, where you'll find music ranging from contemporary Hawaiian to soft jazz. Each room also features an iHome docking station and clock radio with mp3 adapters as well as high-speed Internet access. When you want to read a good book, borrow a Kindle while at the hotel. This will come in handy as you while away hours lounging at the fabulous pools. Guests keep adding titles, so you'll be sure to find something to read.

The design style of Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea perfectly matches its gorgeous beachfront setting. The open-air lobby immediately sets the tone. Filled with beautiful flora and a museum-quality collection of contemporary art, with works from Hawaii's statehood to the present, the lobby is ideal for a cocktail (there's live music in the evenings). The U-shaped building is designed so that the majority of rooms have full ocean views. A subtle island décor is found in guestrooms, which are all spacious and comfortable with cheery colors like warm yellow and more Hawaiian artwork. The entire design of the resort emphasizes open spaces — even the gym is outdoors here — taking full advantage of Wailea's year-round dry and sunny weather. The Five-Star luxury oceanfront resort more than meets the needs of its sophisticated and active guests, with several pools, great open-air dining and a lovely crescent beach.

To make the most of your Hawaiian getaway, there are few things you should know about Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Here's the 411 on this Five-Star hotel:

1.Wailea is an active resort community. This is not a remote hotel where folks hole up in their rooms and order room service. Four Seasons Maui at Wailea has a great energy. The lobby is a lively spot for an evening cocktail, the pools are upbeat and celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck's Spago is a fun place for dinner. The resort is elegant but not at all stuffy. Guests here are constantly on the move — golfing, snorkeling, taking Pilates classes, playing table tennis in the gaming area and exploring the island.

2. There are no bungalows. Unlike some of Four Seasons' other Hawaiian hotels, the resort at Wailea is a six-story structure with no bungalows. It's a multi-story, U-shaped building, a design that gives most rooms full ocean views. It's also spread out, so it doesn't feel like guests are on top of each other. But you won't be able to hole up in a secluded bungalow by the beach — Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu on the Big Island has that.

3. All Maui beaches are public. State law in Hawaii requires that all counties provide public access to beaches — including those in Wailea. So be prepared to share the towel space with residents and others, especially on weekends and during holidays, though the crescent beach here is never overcrowded.

4. There are no beachfront rooms. Even the most expensive, most luxurious accommodations — the 5,000-square-foot Maile Suite — don't have direct access to the beach. To get to the water, you'll need to walk across the hotel lobby, past the pools and down a right-of-way to the warm sand and crashing waves.

5. Wailea Beach doesn't allow motorized sports. Unfortunately, this means no Jet Skis or motorboats are allowed here. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the ocean. The resort offers a variety of non-motorized ocean activities, including stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling and outrigger canoeing.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea has not one but three saline pools. The main pool is located in the center of the grounds, easily identified by its iconic fountain, and surrounded by cabanas and lounge chairs. Next to the main pool is the children's pool with waterfalls and family-sized seating areas. Both pools are heated — between 72 F and 82 F — and have attendants who frequently come by with every amenity you can think of — chilled towels, Evian spritzes, ice cream. Located above these pools — just before you enter the lobby — is the Serenity pool, which is reserved for adults only and has a swim-up bar (try the blueberry mojito). The 4,100-square-foot Serenity pool offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, Lana'i and the West Maui mountain range. The infinity-edge saline pool features underwater music and four bubble loungers, and is flanked by six luxury cabanas with flat-screen HD TVs and Wi-Fi (unlike those around the main pool, there's a fee for booking these cabanas).

It's easy to get to Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea from the airport. The resort is about a 30-minute drive from Kahului Airport and is pretty much a straight shot on a highway road. You can rent a car or arrange for car service, catch a shuttle or take a taxi.

You can arrange for a private car or reserve a rental at one of the eight car companies located at the airport. The car rental counter is located on the walkway just past the end of the baggage claim area. Once you hop in your car, get onto Kahului Airport Road (Hawaii 380) and drive about six miles until you reach Mokulele Highway (State Highway 311). Continue on Mokulele Highway until it connects with Piilani Highway (State Highway 31), which will lead you directly into Wailea. Continue onto Wailea Ike Drive for about half a mile, then turn left onto Wailea Alanui Drive at The Shops at Wailea. The hotel will be on your right, just past Grand Wailea.

You can also catch an airport shuttle to the hotel. There are two shuttle operators at the airport —SpeediShuttle and Maui Executive Transportation Service.

Taxis are located in the area outside baggage claim. The meter fare from Kahului Airport to Wailea is $3 per mile, or about $57 one way. You can call Maui Airport Taxi to arrange transportation.

The county of Maui also operates a public transit system that provides limited service to and from the airport. The Maui Bus stops at marked locations fronting the terminal and routes are operated daily for $1 per ride. It's important to note, however, that luggage is limited to one medium-sized suitcase, duffle bag or carry-on bag per person. Check the county's website for routes and timetables.

On the lobby level of Four Seasons Resort Lana’i at Manele Bay is the open-air Hale AheAhe Lounge, a big Hawaiin sports bar with most of the creature comforts of your local hideout back home. Those who need a break from the sun and surf will find respite in all the usual suspects — a pool table, comfy chairs and the requisite 46-inch flat-screen TV. And what hangout would feel complete without some good, old fashioned bar snacks? Thankfully the Hale AheAhe has standard Hawaiian versions such as Crispy Taro Chips with Hawaiian Poke so you can nibble like a native.

With three restaurants and an expansive lounge, you have plenty of dining and imbibing options at the Four Seasons Resort Lana’i at Manele Bay. Breakfast and dinner are served at Hulopo’e Court, which boasts an ocean view and a menu focused on prime and wagyu beef as well as the local Hawaiian catch. The casual eatery is named after the Hulopo’e Bay, which laps at the white-sand beach below.

Whether you make it for lunch, happy hour or dinner, Fresco offers a fabulous poolside setting. Contemporary Italian cuisine is made with the freshest ingredients from Hawaii’s local fishers and farmers.

Ideal for a post-golf lunch, the Challenge at Manele Clubhouse offers cliff-side dining with an island-centric menu.

We'd like to think that when you book your luxurious Hawaiian getaway at the Four Seasons Resort Lana'i at Manele Bay, there should be no reason for a cancellation — and with a 21-day cancellation policy, this Four-Star hotel seems to agree with us. If extenuating circumstance do pop up, be ready to pay a cancellation fee if you cancel within three weeks of your expected day of arrival (though the fee may change depending on your room type and arrival date). Be sure to check with the front desk when you make your reservation and ask for the cancellation specifics of your specific room type.

The postcard-perfect island of Lana’i sits just a few miles west of Maui and that’s where you’ll find the Four Seasons Resort Lana’i at Manele Bay. Frankly, there’s not much happening on the tiny island but that’s all part of the Four-Star resort’s beguiling charm. Built atop a cliff overlooking the Hulopo’e Bay and located at 1 Manele Bay Rd., the luxury resort offers the ocean-side refuge from busy life that you’ve likely been craving for months, possibly years. The untouched feel of the island, unique marine preserve and white sand beaches are ideal for travelers looking for quintessential Hawaii.

Depending on which room you opt for at Four Seasons Resort Lana’i at Manele Bay, the price can be as low as $325 or as high as $6,500. Of course as the price goes up, so do the luxury amenities as well as the size of the guestroom. The standard superior rings in around $325 and has a spacious 576 square feet, a hillside view, a marble bath with a deep soaking tub and a rattan writing desk. At the other end of the spectrum is the lavish 2,700-square-foot Ali’i suite, which features a 900-square-foot balcony, a walk-in closet, a dining table, and a guest powder room.

You won't find much in the mini-bar at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu. No mini bottles of liquor, no local snacks, no beauty products you might like. Just two bottles of water and creamer come in your mini-bar. That being said, you can call the Five-Star hotel ahead of time to have it pre-stocked with all your favorite goodies. The room service department can provide everything from a bag of chips to a six-pack of locally brewed beer. Also, unlike some resorts, Four Seasons Hualalai has a general store on site that sells everything from fresh salads and fresh bread to excellent bottles of wine and local beers. Grab what you like and keep it cold back in your room. You can also pick up gifts or any toiletries you might have forgotten.

Two of the three restaurants at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu are suited for families with kids. Both Beach Tree and Pahu i'a offer kids' menus for all meals. All meals for kids under the age of five are free.

Beach Tree offers lunch and dinner options for kids, including macaroni and cheese, spaghetti, grilled mahi mahi fingers, cheeseburgers and fries, and peanut butter and jelly finger sandwiches.

Pahu i'a, which serves breakfast and dinner only, has children's options such as egg and cheese burritos, chocolate chip pancakes, cheese quesadilla, shrimp stir-fry with soba noodles, crispy chicken nuggets and a selection of mini pizzas.

It’s great to be a kid at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu. With a plethora of amenities just for children, your kids will never want to leave this Five-Star resort. The five best amenities for kids are:

1. Kids For All Seasons. This complimentary program keeps kids ages 5 to 12 entertained with outdoor, indoor and educational activities including treasure hunts, sand-sculpting, volcano-building and canoe lessons. The program is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with seasonal activities throughout the year. The facility also features a clubhouse with games, movies and other activities.

2. Arrival amenities. Young guests are greeted at arrival with special treats, which include milk and cookies on evening arrivals. Let the staff know the ages of your children when making your reservation and they will place child-size robes in the bathroom for them.

3. Junior Alakai Nalu. This three-day program introduces kids ages 10 to 17 to the ocean lifestyle. They learn the basics of First Aid, CPR, pool and ocean safety, rescue skills, two- and six-person outrigger canoe paddling, snorkeling, fishing and more.

4. Hale Kula. This game and activity center is just for teens, with a state-of-the-art entertainment center complete with a 54-inch flat-screen TV with surround sound — this is better than the TV in your guest room — six video game consoles and a grassy area for organized outdoor activities.

5. Keiki pool. The free-form pool for kids has a white sand bottom and a bunch of fun water toys. Kids will also appreciate the mini pool chaises for them. The maximum depth is 1.25 feet.

The walking and jogging route near Four Seasons Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu showcases the beauty and history of the area where the Five-Star luxury resort is situated.

There's a 2.4-mile shoreline trail that starts at the Hualalai Sports Club. Head toward the ocean behind Hoku Theatre, along the path between King's Pond and Pahu i'a. As you head south on the trail, you will pass Waiakauhi Pond, an ancient Hawaiian fishpond, and a rugged lava point created more than 200 years ago by Hualalai Volcano. Continue on, past the picturesque 17th hole of the Jack Nicklaus signature golf course and a canoe house that overlooks Uluweuweu Bay and its white-sand beach. This is your turnaround point to complete the 2.4-mile loop.

If you want a slightly longer run, proceed through the Shoreline Public Access parking area and head toward the mountain up the lower slopes of Hualalai. When you reach the Greeter Station, head back toward the resort for this tougher 3.4-mile run.

And if you're in the mood for something even more challenging, continue on the 3.4-mile route, but before you start descending Hualalai, go right on to Ka'upulehu Drive. Look out for goats — for real; you'll notice them in the fields. Head toward the Pacific Ocean and through the Hualalai neighborhoods. You will pass Kaimupulehu Drive and reach Haliipua Place. Keep going and follow signs until you reach Ka'upulehu Drive, which leads you back to the Hualalai Sports Club — and the spa, where you can relax after that 4.8-mile run.

It's easy to stay in shape while on vacation at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu, especially with a 15,000-square-foot private sports club on the property that offers a number of fitness classes, as well as personal training. Every day the Hualalai Sports Club offers a variety of complimentary and fee-based fitness classes. You can choose from fitness walks along the beach, family swimming, pick-up basketball, tennis clinics, PiYo (Pilates and yoga), ocean jogging, spinning, volleyball, water aerobics, yoga and cardio dance, all of which are led by the resort’s team of accomplished fitness and wellness professionals. You can also sign up for private instruction for all types of personal training at an additional cost.

Aside from in-room dining, the only place to enjoy a sit-down breakfast at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu is at Pahu i’a, which sits on the sand between King’s Pond and the Sea Shell crescents. Breakfast service — both à la carte and buffet — starts at 6:30 a.m. daily.

The Hualalai Continental Buffet comes with a daily selection of cereals, fresh island fruits, housemade breakfast pastries and beverages. The Big Island Buffet features all that plus made-to-order omelets, a selection of breakfast meats, as well as hot and cold specials that change daily. The Ultimate Buffet adds Bloody Marys or mimosas.

You can also order breakfast off the menu, which boasts the restaurant’s specialty items such as the Iron Man — egg-white scramble with chicken-mango sausage, blueberries and marcona almonds — and the Dungeness Crab and Egg Panini with melted leeks and Brie cheese. You can also order local fruit, freshly squeezed juices and tropical fruit smoothies.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu doesn't have your run-of-the-mill hotel gym; it has its own sports club. The Hualalai Sports Club is that exclusive private club you wish you had back home. This world-class health and fitness facility spreads over 15,000 square feet, including a yoga studio, a tennis pavilion, a four-lane heated fitness pool, a rock-climbing wall, a sand volleyball court and a 3,900-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness center. It's available for use by guests and residents of Hualalai and open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. You can also use the whirlpool, sauna, steam room and lockers connected with the resort's spa.

Challenge your pals to a game of tennis on one of the eight Rebound Ace surface courts at the Hualalai Tennis Club. Two of the courts are lighted, so you don't have to quit come sunset. You can borrow racquets and balls without charge, and sign up for private or group lessons or take weekly instructional clinics to hone your skills.

The fitness center is made up of three separate 1,300-square-foot gyms. One houses state-of-the-art fitness equipment, such as spinning bicycles, elliptical trainers, rowers and treadmills. Another serves as the weight training room, with floor-to-ceiling mirrors and a full selection of weight machines, free weights and fitness accessories. There are smaller rooms used for fitness classes, most of which are complimentary to guests and include yoga, spinning, Pilates and cardio classes.

One of the perks of the Hualalai Sports Club at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu is the access to the Four-Star spa. After a great workout in the amazing gym, which provides complimentary water, sports drinks, fruits and coffee in the morning, €”guests are able to use the locker rooms and relaxation spaces in the luxurious 28,000-square-foot spa. There are both open-air spaces and tranquil indoor facilities to use, including rain showers equipped with locally crafted organic shampoo, conditioner and body wash. You'll also find shaving kits, mouthwash, facial cleansers, hair dryers, styling products and iced tea. You can use the spa's whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms and cold plunges. Or you can just relax in the Water of Life Garden, a relaxing, lush outdoor space with private lounges next to waterfalls and steams.

FFour Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu boasts three restaurants and several bars, each with unique offerings. Here are our five favorite things to eat and drink:

1. Adult shaved ice. There's nothing better than lounging poolside with a cocktail. But the swim-up bar at the adults-only Palm Groove Pool serves a unique version of a local frozen specialty. The signature "adult" shaved ice — similar to a snow cone — comes in a variety of flavors, from pineapple margarita to a sake pom-tini.

2. Kona coffee-crusted New York steak. An impressive 90 percent of the menu at Pahu i’a is made from ingredients from the Big Island. This prime New York steak is crusted in a Kona coffee rub and paired with kiawe-smoked potatoes and sautéed chard.

3. Spicy Hualalai Roll. One of the most popular starters at Lava Lounge, which is the bar at Pahu i’a, is the Spicy Hualalai Roll with generous portions of tempura shrimp, eel, avocado and masago (fish eggs). Instead of rice, the roll is wrapped in fresh crabmeat and is battered and deep-fried. Try to resist that.

4. Brick-oven pizzas. While Beach Tree serves up great burgers and a mean fish taco, the brick-oven pizzas are a great lunchtime option. Try the mascarpone, prosciutto and arugula pizza or — our pick — the barbecue wild boar with pineapple and ricotta cheese.

5. Signature burgers. Hualalai Grille has some of the juiciest burgers around, all made with local beef. The signature burger here is the Paniolo (cowboy) Burger, with smoked bacon, aged cheddar cheese, onions rings and volcano honey barbecue sauce. The turkey burger with Asian pear marmalade is also good.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu has three restaurants on its sprawling beachfront property, each with unique offerings. All three take advantage of the fresh ingredients available on the island. The resort works with more than 160 local farms, with least a three-fourths of the dishes made from ingredients cultivated on the Big Island.

Known for its “barefoot elegance,” Beach Tree looks a lot like a Hawaiian-style beach house, with 16-foot ceilings and unrivaled ocean views. The California cuisine here has strong Italian influences, with menu items like ahi carpaccio with citrus and avocado, a gorgonzola pizza topped with macadamia nuts and figs, gnocchi with an oxtail ragout and risotto with Hamakua mushrooms.

Pahu i'a boasts a menu that features an impressive 90 percent of ingredients locally sourced. The menu features items such as Keahole lobster done two ways, Dungeness crab won tons with red curry coconut sauce and its signature farmer’s market salad with seaweed croutons and a carrot-ginger dressing. The restaurant is one of the most romantic places to dine in Hawaii. Close your eyes and imagine a restaurant in Hawaii, and it probably looks like Pahu i’a: thatched-roof hut, tiki torches, a large aquarium that casts a neon glow, and an outdoor dining area with comfortable wood tables that practically sit on the sand. The setting was made for honeymooners and elegant dinners at sunset, and the impeccable hospitality makes it even lovelier (the staff happily snaps photos in between serving courses). It also serves a great breakfast and there’s a fun beach barbeque on Saturdays with hula dancers, stargazing with astronomers, and lots of great food — salad bar, steamer station, seafood on ice, grilled entrees and desserts.

Hualalai Grille, located above the Club Shop, is the resort’s casual dining restaurant, with an island-style gastro pub menu featuring a nice array of appetizers, salads, sandwiches and signature burgers — all using fresh, local ingredients.

Unlike a lot of resorts, Four Seasons Hualalai also offers a couple of places to simply grab a coffee or a sandwich if you want to eat on the go or on your private lanai. The coffee bar offers delicious Kona coffee, pastries and fresh fruit smoothies, while the general store is a charming throwback offering fresh salads, wonderful fresh baked bread, sandwiches and other items, as well as some excellent bottles of wine and cold local beers.

The last major renovation — a 15-month, $40-million facelift — to Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu was completed in August 2009. It was the biggest renovation to the resort since it opened in 1996. It included the creation of 20 new suites ranging between 1,150 and 1,950 square feet of indoor and outdoor living space; extensive updates to its 28,000-square-foot spa; the building of a beachfront restaurant, lounge and bar; and the addition of two new retail stores.

Unfortunately, the resort was impacted by the storm surge generated by the 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan in March 2011. The storm brought water, sand and debris onto the grounds of the property, mainly impacting pool areas, landscaping, its oceanfront restaurant and 12 guest rooms. The resort was closed for six weeks to repair the damage.

The beds at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu rival the outdoor shower as the best amenity of the guest rooms and suites here. After a long day of basking in the sun or snorkeling in the 1.8-million-gallon saltwater King's Pond, there is nothing better than falling into bed, especially a bed as comfortable as the ones at this Five-Star resort. These Sterns & Foster Tivoli luxury pillow-top mattresses make the custom bamboo canopy beds look that much more pleasing to the sleepy eye. Dressed in silky Prestige linens, down duvets and pillows, these cloud-like beds will make you want to sleep in, if waking up to a delicious cup of Kona coffee and another gorgeous day in Hawaii wasn't so tempting.

There are a few things you should be sure to pack to make the most of your stay at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu. Get ready for your Hawaiian getaway by planning to take these items:

1. Golf clubs. One of the big draws of Four Seasons Hualalai is its 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Hualalai Golf Course, crafted with sensitivity to the land and winding more than 7,000 yards. It was the first course in Hawaii to be designated a PGA Tour facility and plays hosts to annual events such as a stop on the PGA Championship Tour. Facilities include 30 hitting stations, three target greens, a practice putting green and sand bunker, and a short-game practice area. The resort also offers private lessons by golf professionals and complimentary weekly clinics for guests to improve their skills.

2. Swimsuit. There are seven pools on the property — and the entire Pacific Ocean — in which to frolic. You literally can’t leave your bungalow without tripping over a pool — and they’re all worth visiting. Each pool has a distinct personality, from the adults-only Palm Grove Pool with a swim-up bar that serves adult shaved ice to the Sea Shell pool, the infinity edge, lagoon-shaped family pool and the nearby keiki (children’s) pool with white sandy bottom and lots of water toys.

3. Underwater camera. One of the most unique pools you’ll find anywhere in the world is the resort’s 1.8-million-gallon King’s Pond. This lagoon-shaped pool is home to more than 3,000 tropical fish and a spotted eagle ray. The pool loans out snorkel gear, but you may want an underwater camera to capture the moment.

4. Workout gear. This resort has a private sports club that makes working out seem like a glamorous activity. You will find something to do in this 15,000-square-foot facility, from swimming in the Olympic-style four-lane lap pool to playing tennis at night at one of the two Rebound Ace surface courts with lights. You’ll also find a rock-climbing wall, basketball courts and lots of fitness classes.

5. A good book. There are plenty of places to hide out at this resort, from the semi-private daybeds at the adults-only Palm Grove Pool to the cabanas strategically placed on the sandy beaches fronting the resort. Bring something to read because you’ll have a lot of time — and privacy — to do just that.

The standard guest rooms at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu are luxurious and spacious so you can imagine what the suites are like. Let us paint you a picture.

Suites range in size from the 1,050-square-foot one-bedroom Anelakai Suite — aimed at couples and honeymooners because of the seclusion — to the 2,600-square-foot two-bedroom Kou Suite complete with a personal concierge, living and dining areas, pantry and separate guest powder room. Every suite has a distinct design and décor, from the one-bedroom Kailani Suite that features a canoe crafted from rare woods by local craftsman David Young to the Waiolu Suite that has etched glasswork reminiscent of the 1940s and ‘50s. All first-level suites offer outdoor lava rock garden showers, living areas with a fully equipped entertainment center with a 42-inch flat-screen plasma TV and DVD/CD player, full granite bathrooms with both a deep soaking tub and glass-enclosed shower, iHome docking stations and high-speed Internet access. Most one-bedroom suites can be configured as two-bedroom suites, and different rates will apply. Some suites have private steam showers.

Villas are even more luxurious and range in size from the 2,600-square-foot Makaloa Villa that has its own pool and above-ground fire pit to the stand-alone 5,518-square-foot Hawaii Loa Presidential Villa complete with a hot tub on the furnished lanai, a dining room with seating for eight, a master bedroom with a carved four-poster bed and a full granite bathroom for every bedroom. These rooms come with unique complimentary services that may include a personal concierge, two 50-minute massage treatments, daily offerings from the chef, fresh tropical floral arrangements, customized bar, valet parking, exclusive lounge chairs at the beach and cabanas by the pool and round-trip Kona Airport transfers.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Ka’upulehu boasts seven gorgeous pools, each with its own design and atmosphere.

Located right on the ocean, Beach Tree Pool is the resort’s centerpiece. This traditional rectangular pool — known as the “quiet pool” because of its policy discouraging cell phone use — is lined with blue mosaic tiles and is surrounded by a wooden pool deck, teak chaises and cabanas. Its whirlpool, located at the front of the main pool, is the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

The lagoon-shaped, infinity-edged Sea Shell Pool is considered the family pool, with the freshwater children’s pool — complete with a white-sand bottom — nearby. This shallow pool offers child-size pool chaise lounges and a treasure chest of water toys.

The infinity-edged Palm Grove Pool is for adults only, with a 2,500-square-foot deck made from Brazilian ipe hardwood and basalt planking. The pool is surrounded by 24 chaise lounges, seven semi-private daybeds and two hammocks. There’s a swim-up bar, bench seating within the pool and a miniature Zen garden. All guests here are serviced with hourly poolside pampering.

The most unique of all the pools here is King’s Pond, a 1.8-million-gallon saltwater aquarium of sorts carved out of natural lava rock. It has more than 3,000 tropical fish from more than 75 species — including a spotted eagle ray — swimming freely.

There’s also a heated four-lane fitness pool in the Hualalai Sports Club and Spa and an ocean "pool" carved out of lava rock.

The 243 guest rooms — including 51 suites and villas — at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu provide the perfect island retreat. The resort is divided into different crescent-shaped neighborhoods, each attached to a pool or the golf course. The rooms, all in intimate two-story bungalows and facing the ocean, have private furnished lanais, slate floors and natural hardwood trim to complement the surrounding environment. Unlike more modern boutique hotels that taut a more minimalist approach to the guest room décor, these rooms proudly feature Hawaiian artwork on the walls, giving guests a sense of place on the property.

The standard oceanfront guest rooms are a spacious 635 square feet, with front row seats to Mother Nature’s show on the Pacific Ocean. The rooms on the upper floors feature larger lanais furnished for sunset viewing or oceanfront dining. The lower levels have furnished terraces and an outdoor lava rock garden shower that juts out from the bathroom. Living areas are furnished with rattan chaise lounges, side tables, marble-top wooden dressers and entertainment centers with 42-inch flat-screen plasma TVs and DVD/CD players. The bedroom area features a custom bamboo canopy bed, walk-in closet and an iHome docking station that charges your mp3 device. Granite bathrooms have deep soaking tubs and separate glass-enclosed showers.

Unlike some other resorts, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu doesn't charge any resort fees. From the moment you arrive and are given a choice of a mai tai or juice, you will be pampered with many little extras that are included in your stay, such as coffee service in the morning, an endless stream of poolside amenities, the use of snorkeling equipment and boogie boards, and lots more. You can also use the fantastic gym, which includes basketball courts and a rock-climbing wall, free of charge. Check the list of daily activities — housekeeping will leave a list of you in your room every night. There's always something going on — think Kona coffee-tasting, shell crafts, snorkel lessons and beachside yoga.

Kids also have it made at the resort. Four Seasons Hualalai doesn't charge for its kids club, which features great activities such as treasure hunts, snorkeling and volcano-building for kids ages 5 to 12, or for its teen activity center, which offers video games, ping-pong and more. There's a charge for valet parking but you can conveniently park your car yourself. The only thing you have to pay extra for is wireless Internet service in your room.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu has an array of amenities that make staying at this oasis a truly unique experience. The five best amenities:

1. The Pools. The resort is divided into seven neighborhoods, with seven unique pools. Beach Tree Pool is the centerpiece of the resort, with its mosaic ocean-blue tiles and wooden pool deck, teak chaises and cabanas. Pool attendants come by with an endless stream of amenities: Evian spritzes, ice cream, sunglass cleaning service, and more. The infinity-edged Sea Shell Pool is considered the family pool, with palapa cabanas and an adjacent free-form children's pool with a white sandy bottom and mini chaise lounges. Palm Grove Pool is for adults only with an oversize Jacuzzi, day beds, chaise lounges, a swim-up bar (which offers tasty alcoholic shaved ice) and two hammocks. King's Pond is the most unique of them all, with more than 3,000 tropical fish in the 1.8-million-gallon pool.

2. Hualalai Sports Club. This gleaming sports club offers 15,000 square feet of health and fitness facilities, including a yoga studio, a tennis pavilion, a four-lane fitness pool, a rock-climbing wall, a sand volleyball court and a 1,300-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness center. It’s easily one of the best resort gyms we've seen.

3. The Spa. The 28,000-square-foot, Four-Star spa at this resort combines both open-air spaces with tranquil indoor settings to create an island-style sanctuary. A tropical, open-air garden — the Water of Life Garden — lets you relax under the shade of lush foliage and listen to the soothing sounds of waterfalls and chirping birds. The most unique offering is the apothecary, where you can choose natural ingredients for a spa treatment.

4. Ka’upulehu Cultural Center. This interpretative center is a great place to learn about and appreciate all things Hawaiian, from cultural values to traditional arts. Some of the center’s offerings include star navigation, lauhala-weaving, shell crafts, feather art, ukulele lessons and Hawaiian language classes.

5. Kids For All Seasons Program. This complimentary program allows kids ages 5 to 12 to explore the resort’s rich tropical environment, with activities such as treasure hunts and volcano-building. Kids can even learn basic scuba skills in the resort’s swimming pool.

There is simply so much to love about Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu. It's a destination in itself, with its beautiful beach setting along the Kona-Kohala coast, gorgeous open-air spa, amazing pools with amenities galore and luxurious bungalows built into the black lava rock. Our five favorite things about this Five-Star property:

1. The Spa. The spa at this resort is literally 28,000 square feet of luxury and relaxation, combining both open-air environs with tranquil indoor settings to create a truly unique sanctuary. During a recent renovation, a tropical, open-air garden — the Water of Life Garden — opened for guests who want to relax under the shade of lush foliage and listen to the soothing sounds of waterfalls and chirping birds. The most unique offering is the apothecary, which incorporates the healing tradition of using natural ingredients to personalize each spa treatment.

2. Ka’upulehu Cultural Center. This interpretative center provides guests with an opportunity to learn about and appreciate all things Hawaiian, from cultural values to traditional arts. Some of the center’s offerings include star navigation, lauhala-weaving, shell crafts, feather art, ukulele lessons and Hawaiian language classes.

3. Hualalai Sports Club. This is no ordinary hotel gym. This exclusive sports club — Hualalai residents are members here, too — offers 15,000 square feet of health and fitness facilities, including a yoga studio, a tennis pavilion, a four-lane fitness pool, a rock-climbing wall, a sand volleyball court and a 1,300-square-foot state-of-the-art gym.

4. Outdoor showers. The resort is divided into two-story bungalows and villas, with every room boasting private lanais with ocean views. Most ground floor rooms, as well as all of the villas, have a special amenity: an outdoor, lava rock shower just outside the bathroom. (Second-floor rooms have bigger lanais and better views, since they are higher up.)

5. King’s Pond. The resort is divided into seven neighborhoods, each with its own unique pool. King’s Pond, located into the northernmost crescent of the resort, is a 1.8-million-gallon saltwater aquarium of sorts, carved out of the natural lava rock, with more than 3,000 tropical fish — and a spotted eagle ray — swimming freely. You can borrow snorkeling equipment or just lounge poolside and enjoy. You can also help staff feed the fish at designated times.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu is different from other Five-Star hotels primarily in its setting. From the moment you enter the soaring, open-air lobby full of exotic floral arrangements and sip the cool mai tai offered at check-in, you will be in pure Hawaiian heaven at this Five-Star resort. Situated on the secluded Kona-Kohala coast, Four Seasons Hualalai was designed to fit into its natural setting. Luxurious bungalows are carved into the black volcanic rock landscape, allowing ocean views from all the rooms. All rooms have private lanais and many have outdoor showers. In addition to lots of tropical vegetation, the grounds feature a saltwater pond carved out of the lava rock that's teeming with fish, including a spotted eagle ray (snorkeling equipment is available). Fresh and saltwater pools dot the property, while the open-air spa with a groovy apothecary is a true island sanctuary. Two of the tree restaurants on the property are right on the beach and there are activities galore, from snorkeling in the crystal blue waters to lei making in the onsite cultural center. The resort is a uniquely Hawaiian experience that's made all the more special by the resort's famously impeccable Five-Star service.